Synonyms of contradiction

contradiction

noun

ˌkän-trə-ˈdik-shən 

1

as in paradox

someone or something with qualities or features that seem to conflict with one another

a loving father as well as a ruthless killer, the gangster is a living contradiction

Synonyms & Similar Words

• paradox
• dichotomy
• incongruity
• mystery
• enigma
• riddle
• puzzle
• conundrum
• antinomy
• puzzlement
• mystification

2

as in denial

a refusal to confirm the truth of a statement

the actress's contradiction of the marriage rumor caused quite a stir

Synonyms & Similar Words

• denial
• rejection
• disavowal
• negation
• repudiation
• refutation
• disclaimer
• disallowance
• denegation
• rebuttal
• disconfirmation
• disproof
• negative

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• confirmation
• admission
• acknowledgment
• declaration
• confession
• concession
• assertion
• testimony
• affirmation
• avowal
• documentation
• validation
• testament
• corroboration
• substantiation
• attestation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of contradiction

The trial itself was filled with all manner of inconsistencies and contradictions. — Joshua Yaffa, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026

Over a career spanning six decades, Herzog has become one of the most influential figures in international cinema, working on around 80 films often alighting on the subjects of obsession, extreme situations and the contradictions of human nature. — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 7 Aug. 2026

Jobs are down, but consumer sentiment—and the stock market—are up, leaving the retail sector to reckon with a host of seeming contradictions and confusing market signals. — Kate Nishimura, Footwear News, 7 Aug. 2026

What happens when the maternal body enters spaces built around aspiration, beauty, and desire, not as a contradiction but as an undeniable presence? — Alessia Glaviano, Vogue, 7 Aug. 2026